Tag «cycling»

Many of us pay quite close attention to our fitness, especially in the summer since it is bikini season, even though we already don’t have enough hours in a day to achieve all the things we wanted to do. But dog owners might have a way to get in their work out and walk their pet at the same time by exercising with their dog. A study done by researchers from Michigan University actually conduced, that dog owners are 34 percent more likely to get in regular workouts each week than people who don’t own a dog. So check out our suggestions of the best work outs you can do with your dog as your training partner.

First and foremost you can simply go for a run with your furry friend by your side. Since dogs are creatures of habit, once you accustom your dog to regular morning or evening runs, your dog will help you keep running regularly, because it will be sitting by your running shoes every day and waiting you to go for a run. Just make sure that your dog doesn’t overhear during the run, as they cannot sweat to get their body temperature down like we can. So no matter the size of your pooch, strap him on a leash and go for a run. Bonus, after the run your dog will be tired out so will let you rest too, by not running around your home and demanding your attention.

Another dog friendly work out is cycling, especially if your dog is very energetic. Many think that dogs will have a hard time to keep up so they don’t cycle with their dogs, but canines actually love to run at pull speed and they will be able to do it next to you biking. Just make sure that you have a way to deal with any sudden tugs that your dog might do by chasing a cat or just veering off course. You can do it by either not using a leash, which could be an option if you are cycling at a more remote place, or by just using some type of device, that can be attached to your leash and that can absorb the force of sudden tugs.

Many dogs love water and swimming, so why not do some water sport activities with your man’s best friend? A good option is the recently popular stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking. Paddle boards are actually very suitable for having your dog on the nose of the board. Pick a calmer day and test out the waters by paddle boarding for a while. Kayaks, too, are surprisingly suitable for having your dog with you while you are kayaking. If you have bigger dog then position it closer to your feet, but a smaller breed can chill out in the front of the kayak. At first it might be harder to adjust to the added weight, but soon enough you will be kayaking with your dog and getting in a great workout.

And for those who live in climate where there is cold winters with snow and everything, even then you can exercise with your dog, by taking it with you when you are going snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Not only your dog will get the chance to have fun in the snow and really stretch its legs after not having gotten real run for a while due to the cold weather, but you, too, will get total-body workout. Its a win- win, and later you both can curl up at your home and enjoy the slight exhaustion from the work out and the fresh air.